The International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) is a global organization, originally established in the United States in 2016 as the National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF) with the purpose of promoting and regulating the sport of axe throwing.[1] [2] [3] [4]
IATF has over 20,000 competitive throwers.[5] Its leagues culminate in the International Axe Throwing Championship (IATC) to award the Wilson Cup and over $16,500 in prize money and charitable donation.
Scoring in axe-throwing includes a three-round match system where five axes are thrown per round. The first player to win two of three rounds wins. Scoring is determined by where on the target the axe strikes.
The targets under NATF have a black bullseye ring, followed by a red ring, and then a blue ring. The scoring is 5, 3, and 1 point respectively. Additionally, there are green dots in the corner, known as “Clutch,” and must be called in advance during the final throw of a match (worth 7 points). Point designation is based on where the majority of the blade lands and sticks.[6]
The axe throwing league calendar culminates at the National Axe Throwing Championship (NATC), where league players compete for the Wilson Cup. The NATC takes place in two stages of competition in January and February of each year. The final stage takes place during the annual All-Star Weekend, together with other axe throwing events including the Winter Skillz competition and the Axe Prom dinner and awards ceremony.
The 2018 All-Star Weekend was presented by Beau's All Natural Brewing Co. The NATC tournament helped to raise proceeds of $9,766.92 for donation to the Red Door Family Shelter.
Winners of the NATC are awarded the Wilson Cup, which is named after the NATF's Commissioner, Matt Wilson. Wilson and some friends pioneered the sport in 2006.[7]
From 2012 - 2016 the National Axe Throwing Championship was known as the annual Champions League tournament for eligible competitors from the Backyard Axe Throwing League. Past Champions League winners include:
The NATF consists of seven North American regions and one International region to support local axe throwing competition.
The National Axe Throwing Federation was founded in 2016 by Matt Wilson and COO, Brian Simmons, from BATL.[8]